Bordeaux is one of the most esteemed wine regions in the world. And despite women playing an enormous role in the region’s rich history of winemaking, it’s largely been male-dominated. But as women winemakers are taking the helm in Bordeaux, this is no longer the case.
In honor of International Women’s History Month, a group of women winemakers from Bordeaux took over New York City. During the week-long celebration, twenty winemakers met with wine enthusiasts to pour a selection of their wines exclusively from 3-liter wine bottles made specially for this event. Some of the best restaurants and wine bars throughout New York City, including 701, Claudette, and The Loyal, participated in the tour. The women were even hosted by Consul General Anne-Claire Legendre at the French Consulate.
“The women winemakers of Bordeaux are a significant force in shaping the future of our region,” says Bernard Farges, President of the Bordeaux Wine Council. “March gives us all the opportunity to reflect on the profound contribution by women in every field and throughout history.” A few of the winemakers included Rita Jammet, La Caravelle (Cave Listrac), Sophie Solnicki-Thierry, Château Fourcas Hosten, Pascale Peyronie, Château Fonbadet, Caroline Perromat, Château de Cérons, and Sylvie Coursell of Château Thieuley.
Surrounded by the Garonne and Dordogne rivers, Bordeaux is a historic region in France that yields exquisite wines, both red and white. While there are some very expensive Bordeaux wines, there are many that are high quality, less intimidating and easy to drink. The most important thing to know about the famous French region is its wine is a blend of varietals. A red Bordeaux will include at least two or more of the Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Malbec varieties. And Bordeaux white wines are typically Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon blends. Bordeaux is known for its rich, elegant wines. Now, with its growing sustainability practices and inclusiveness, the renowned region will continue to be in the forefront of winemaking.
